This term, the Y5&6 theme for learning has been ‘Lights, Camera, Action’. At the start of the theme, the children researched and reviewed different movies. They also watched a number of clips from Dr Who to get some ideas and were then tasked with planning and recording their own movies. Throughout the term, they have been developing their literacy, numeracy and digital skills by writing scripts, budgeting costs, filming and editing their own movies. Once each group had come up with their movie idea, pupils used Google Docs to collaboratively write their scripts. Pupils were also given lessons in creating explosions and other special effects using a range of apps and our green screens. All of the groups created excellent movies! It’s been wonderful to see the children so engaged with their learning and enjoying such an exciting project.
Today, however, was the day that everyone had been waiting for because the Y5&6 teachers held an Oscars party for the children to celebrate their movies. As the pupils arrived at school in their posh dresses and suits, a long red carpet was rolled out to lead them to the school hall. After a quick photoshoot on the carpet with their friends, pupils entered the hall to see the amazing transformation which had taken place overnight! Decorations and lights hung from the ceiling, streamers and sparkly banners covered the walls and tables complete with centre pieces were spread out around the edge of the stage.
I welcomed the children to the event, told some awful jokes and said what a wonderful year it had been for film making! Kieren and Isabelle then took over to present the first award. There were all kinds of awards for: best actor/actress, best supporting actor/actress, best special effect, best script, best costume… and lots more! The teachers acted as waiters and waitresses serving drinks, fruit kebabs and canapés throughout the day.
The Chair of our Governing Body joined us for part of the day and was so impressed with how well the pupils were speaking whilst presenting and giving their acceptance speeches. They truly were excellent!
I went in and out of the hall several times throughout the day and every time I looked in, all children had huge smiles on their faces and were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Learning experiences like this are so important for children; to keep them engaged with their learning, grow their confidence and also to provide a real opportunity and purpose to develop their skills.
Although I’m slightly biased… we truly have an excellent team of teachers at St. Julian’s Primary School, who constantly go above and beyond to provide the very best opportunities for our learners. A huge ‘thank you’ to Mrs Hollings, Mrs Cooke, Mr Carter, Mr Jones and Miss Evans for their hard-work, organisation and preparation that went into the day – it was outstanding!
A huge ‘well-done’ to our Year 5&6s for writing superb scripts, amazing acting, excellent video editing skills and awesome acceptance speeches! You make us so proud!
